What are Closed-back Headphones?
If you’re passionate about music and demand the absolute best sound quality, closed-back headphones are a great choice as they help block out external noise, allowing you to enjoy your music to the fullest. Unlike open-back headphones, which have an open ear cup design that allows sound to leak in and out, closed-back headphones seal the ears, providing superior isolation from your surroundings. This makes them ideal for noisy environments or for those who prefer a more private listening experience. Although closed-back headphones offer some noise isolation, they are not the same as noise-cancelling headphones, which actively cancel out external noise using microphones and electronics.
In this article, we will focus on the top tier of closed-back headphones that are designed for people who have a keen ear for music. These headphones are not your everyday headphones; they are made with premium materials, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on delivering an unparalleled audio experience. We’ve carefully selected five of the best luxury closed-back headphones in the market, each with its own unique strengths and characteristics. Do you crave crystal-clear detail? Or maybe you enjoy powerful bass and a wide soundstage? No matter your preference, this list has headphones that will deliver the sound you’re looking for.
If you’re ready to invest in headphones that can take your listening experience to the next level, read on to discover our top picks for 5 Best Luxury Closed-Back Headphones for 2024.
High-end Closed-Back Headphone Recommendation:
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through my links in this content.Focal Stellia
The Focal Stellia headphones are a testament to Focal’s commitment to delivering top-notch audio quality and opulent design. These closed-back headphones combine exceptional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to provide an exquisite listening experience.
Sound Signature:
The Stellia’s sound signature is characterized by its detailed, nuanced, and engaging sound. The bass is tight, articulate, and well-controlled, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the rest of the frequency spectrum. The midrange is lush and detailed, with vocals and instruments rendered with exceptional clarity and presence. The treble is smooth, extended, and airy, adding a touch of sparkle and refinement to the overall sound.
Soundstage and Imaging:
Despite being a closed-back design, the Stellia offers a surprisingly spacious and well-defined soundstage. Instruments and vocals are precisely placed within the mix, creating a holographic sound image that’s both immersive and engaging. The Stellia’s ability to reproduce a sense of depth and space is truly remarkable for a closed-back headphone.
Build Quality and Comfort:
The Stellia is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with its full-grain leather headband and earpads, polished stainless steel yokes, and cognac and mocha finishes. The headphones are not only visually stunning but also incredibly comfortable, thanks to their ergonomic design and plush padding. The Stellia’s luxurious materials and meticulous attention to detail make it a headphone that’s as much a fashion statement as it is a tool for audio enjoyment.
Who It’s For:
If you’re looking for high-quality headphones that combine luxury, performance, and prestige, the Focal Stellia is perfect for you. Its exceptional build quality, detailed sound signature, and refined aesthetics make it a headphone that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophiles. It’s a worthy investment for anyone who wants the very best in sound quality and luxurious design.
Focal Stellia Closed-Back
Focal Stellia Closed-Back Circum-Aural Over-Ear Headphones (Cognac). Deliver every tiny detail of every song at both very high and very low frequencies without compromising any tonal balance
Audeze LCD-XC:
The Audeze LCD-XC is a closed-back headphone that showcases the brand’s commitment to offering top-quality audiophile-grade sound. These headphones are engineered with Audeze’s renowned planar magnetic drivers, which produce an incredibly detailed and accurate sound reproduction that will satisfy even the most discerning ears.
Sound Signature:
The LCD-XC offers a balanced sound signature, with a slight emphasis on the lower frequencies, which creates a powerful and visceral listening experience. The bass is tight, controlled, and extends deep, while the midrange is clear and detailed, rendering vocals and instruments with exceptional accuracy. The treble is smooth and extended, adding a touch of airiness to the overall sound.
Soundstage and Imaging:
Despite being a closed-back design, the LCD-XC offers a surprisingly wide and spacious soundstage, making it one of the most impressive aspects of the headphones. It gives the impression of a much larger listening environment, and the imaging is also precise, enabling you to pinpoint the exact location of each instrument and vocal within the mix.
Build Quality and Comfort:
The headphones boast a luxurious build quality, with wood earcups and a sturdy metal frame. The plush leather earpads and headband ensure a comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions. While the headphones are relatively heavy, the weight is well-distributed, so there is no discomfort.
Who It’s For:
The Audeze LCD-XC is an excellent choice for audiophiles who crave accuracy, detail, and a powerful sound signature. It is also a great option for those who enjoy a wide soundstage and precise imaging. Although not the most portable headphones, they are certainly ones that you will want to savor at home or in the studio.
Audeze LCD-XC
Audeze LCD-XC Over Ear Closed Back Headphone, Carbon Weave earcups with Suspension Headband, Creator Edition with Economy Carry case.
Meze Audio Empyrean:
The Meze Audio Empyrean is a remarkable headphone that blends art and engineering to create an exceptional audio experience. Its design is reminiscent of a sculpture that houses an extraordinary isodynamic hybrid array driver technology, setting it apart from other options available in the market.
Sound Signature:
The Empyrean has a well-balanced and immersive sound signature that caters to a wide range of musical genres. The bass is tight and articulate, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the mix. The midrange is detailed and lush, with vocals and instruments presented with exceptional clarity and warmth. The treble is smooth and extended, adding a touch of airiness and sparkle to the overall sound.
Soundstage and Imaging:
Despite being a closed-back design, the Empyrean offers a surprisingly wide and open soundstage, allowing each instrument and vocal to occupy its own distinct space. The imaging is precise and holographic, creating a truly immersive listening experience that draws you into the heart of the music.
Build Quality and Comfort:
The Empyrean is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with a CNC-machined aluminum frame and a handcrafted leather headband. The earcups are made from a combination of carbon fiber and leather, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit even during long listening sessions. The headphones are relatively lightweight, making them easy to wear for hours on end.
Who It’s For:
The Meze Audio Empyrean is perfect for audiophiles who value design and comfort as much as they do sound quality. Its unique driver technology, combined with its striking aesthetics and premium build quality, make it a headphone that’s as much a work of art as it is a tool for audio enjoyment.
MEZE AUDIO 109 Pro
MEZE AUDIO 109 Pro | Wired Wooden Open-Back Headset for Audiophiles | Over-Ear Headphones with Self Adjustable Headband.
Note: Empyrean II is quite hard to find, this is the alternative from Meze Audio.
Dan Clark Audio Stealth:
The Dan Clark Audio Stealth headphones are a great example of innovation in headphone design. These headphones use a proprietary driver technology that combines planar magnetic and dynamic drivers to provide a unique and dynamic sound experience.
Sound Signature:
The Stealth’s sound signature is characterized by its speed, detail, and energy. The bass is tight and punchy, with excellent extension and control. The midrange is forward and engaging, with vocals and instruments presented with exceptional clarity and presence. The treble is crisp and detailed, with a natural sparkle that adds air and openness to the soundstage.
Soundstage and Imaging:
The Stealth is known for its spacious soundstage, which is surprisingly wide and open for a closed-back design. The imaging is precise and holographic, allowing you to pinpoint the exact location of each instrument and vocal within the mix. The headphones create a sense of depth and immersion that’s truly remarkable.
Build Quality and Comfort:
The build quality of the Stealth is top-notch, with a combination of metal and carbon fiber in its construction. The earpads and headband are made from high-quality materials, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit even during extended listening sessions. The headphones are relatively lightweight, making them easy to wear for hours on end.
Who It’s For:
The Dan Clark Audio Stealth is a headphone that’s perfect for audiophiles who are seeking a truly immersive and engaging listening experience. Its innovative driver technology, combined with its spacious soundstage and holographic imaging, make it a headphone that’s sure to captivate your senses.
Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC:
The Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC is a high-end headphone that stands out with its unique design and exceptional sound quality. This planar magnetic headphone is known for delivering a one-of-a-kind listening experience, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in audio reproduction.
Sound Signature:
The AB-1266 Phi TC produces a powerful and impactful sound signature that’s both revealing and visceral. The sub-bass region is deep and textured, providing a solid foundation for the music. The midrange is clear and detailed, and the vocals and instruments are presented with exceptional realism and presence. The treble is crisp and extended, adding a touch of airiness and sparkle to the overall sound.
Soundstage and Imaging:
Although the AB-1266 Phi TC has a closed-back design, it offers a surprisingly spacious soundstage with excellent separation and layering. The imaging is precise and holographic, allowing you to pinpoint the exact location of each instrument and vocal within the mix. These headphones create a sense of depth and immersion that’s truly remarkable.
Build Quality and Comfort:
The AB-1266 Phi TC is a testament to detail craftsmanship, using high-quality materials such as aerospace-grade aluminum and premium leather. The unique headband design and adjustable earpads ensure a comfortable and secure fit, even during extended listening sessions.
Who It’s For:
The Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC is the ideal headphone for audiophiles who crave a unique and exotic listening experience. With its distinctive design and powerful sound signature, the AB-1266 Phi TC is sure to turn heads and delight ears. If you’re looking for a headphone that pushes the boundaries of audio reproduction, the AB-1266 Phi TC is a worthy investment.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Focal Stellia | Audeze LCD-XC | Meze Audio Empyrean | Dan Clark Audio Stealth | Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC |
| Price | $$$$ | $$$$ | $$$$ | $$$$ | $$$$$ |
| Sound Signature | Detailed, Refined | Balanced, Powerful Bass | Balanced, Immersive | Dynamic, Engaging | Powerful, Impactful |
| Build Quality/Materials | Leather, Stainless Steel | Wood, Metal, Leather | Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Leather | Metal, Carbon Fiber | Aerospace Aluminum, Leather |
| Comfort | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good |
| Overall Performance | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Unique Strengths | Luxurious Design, Refined Sound | Planar Magnetic Precision | Isodynamic Hybrid Array | Unique Driver Tech | Exotic Design, Powerful Bass |
Price Range:
- $$$ = $1000-$2000
- $$$$ = $2000-$3000
- $$$$$ = Over $3000
Personal Favorite
All of the headphones discussed offer an exceptional listening experience, however, my personal favorite is the Focal Stellia. The combination of luxurious design, detailed craftsmanship, and refined sound signature make it a true masterpiece in the world of high-end audio. The Stellia has the ability to reproduce music with such detail, clarity, and emotion that it is simply breathtaking. Not only does it sound incredible, but it also feels like a piece of art that you will be proud of and cherish for years to come.
However, the best headphones for you will ultimately depend on your individual preferences and listening priorities. I encourage you to audition these headphones if possible to determine which one best suits your needs and tastes.
Buying Guide for Luxury Closed-Back Headphones:
Choosing the right pair of luxury closed-back headphones involves more than just a hefty price tag. It’s about finding the perfect blend of sound quality, comfort, design, and personal preference. Here’s what you should consider before making your investment:
Sound Signature:
- Detailed: If you crave headphones that reveal every nuance and detail in your music, the Audeze LCD-XC and Focal Stellia are recommended in this area. Their precise sound reproduction will unveil subtleties you’ve never noticed before.
- Balanced: For a more neutral sound that doesn’t emphasize any particular frequency range, the Meze Audio Empyrean is a fantastic choice. Its well-rounded sound signature makes it versatile for various genres.
- Impactful: If you enjoy a powerful and visceral listening experience with deep bass and energetic highs, the Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC and Dan Clark Audio Stealth deliver on this front.
Design and Aesthetics:
Luxury headphones are as much about form as they are about function. Consider the materials used, such as leather, metal, and carbon fiber, and the overall design aesthetic. Do you prefer a classic and understated look or something more modern and eye-catching?
Comfort and Fit:
When looking for headphones, keep in mind their comfort and fit. The materials used for the headband and earpads, as well as their overall weight and clamping force, are all important factors to consider. This is particularly crucial for long listening sessions, during which a comfortable fit is essential.
Budget:
Premium headphones can be quite expensive, so it’s a good idea to determine your budget beforehand and choose a pair of headphones that offers the best value within your price range. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality pair of headphones is an investment in your long-term enjoyment of music.
Where to Buy:
While each of the headphones listed above has its own website, we highly recommend purchasing them through Amazon for several reasons:
- Convenience: Amazon offers a vast selection of headphones, making it easy for you to compare different models and prices.
- Customer Reviews: Amazon allows you to read reviews from other users, which can help you gain a better understanding of each headphone’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Reliable Shipping: Amazon typically provides fast and reliable shipping, ensuring that your new headphones will arrive safely and on time.
- Easy Returns: If for any reason you’re not satisfied with your purchase, Amazon offers a hassle-free return process.
- Warranty and Protection: Many headphones sold on Amazon come with manufacturer warranties and additional protection plans, giving you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect pair of luxury closed-back headphones is a personal journey. Each of these five headphones offers a unique blend of sound quality, design, and comfort, catering to different tastes and preferences.
The Audeze LCD-XC is a powerhouse of detail and accuracy, perfect for those who crave a revealing and immersive listening experience. The Meze Audio Empyrean strikes a balance between artistry and engineering, offering a beautiful design and a well-rounded sound signature. The Dan Clark Audio Stealth pushes the boundaries of innovation with its unique driver technology and dynamic sound. The Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC is a statement piece that delivers a powerful and impactful sound with a distinctive design. And finally, the Focal Stellia exudes luxury and refinement, offering a detailed and engaging sound that’s sure to impress.
Remember, the best headphone for you will depend on your individual listening preferences and priorities. Consider what aspects of sound quality are most important to you, such as detail, soundstage, bass response, or overall balance. Think about how important design and comfort are to you, and factor in your budget.
Investing in a pair of luxury closed-back headphones is an investment in your long-term enjoyment of music. Choose wisely, and you’ll be rewarded with countless hours of listening pleasure.
